THE Darwen Pedal Car Grand Prix could be replaced with a motorcycle and scooter event in the future.

It was announced at a town council meeting that the major annual event was in danger after attendance this year was branded ‘very disappointing’.

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Now, Cllr Trevor Maxfield has suggested that the event could be replaced with something similar to the Ribble Valley Mod Weekender.

The popular event in Clitheroe is a three-day festival that involves live music and a major scooter rally.

The idea is in its early stages and the exact format and details are yet to be decided by Darwen Town Council, but many councillors agreed that it would be a positive move.

Cllr Maxfield said: “I am only advising the council, as they will have to make decisions about this, but I’m envisaging an event like the Ribble Valley Mod Weekender, with motorcycle clubs in Darwen getting involved and going round various town venues.

“I’d also like to see bands playing in pubs and custom show stalls.

“I think the grand prix has run it’s course.

“The person who used to organise it, Phil Jones, is no longer on the council and it really needs a councillor fully behind it.

“The attendance has got less and less over the past few years and it doesn’t have value for money anymore.

“A motorcycle event has massive potential to bring thousands of people into Darwen.”

Teams from as far away as Manchester took part in the two-hour race this year with Crown Paints, Ewood Bikes and the 105th Manchester Scouts among the participants.

More than 100 spectators watched drivers battle it out but this was seen to be considerably less than previous years.

The organiser for the past few years has been Cllr Pete Hollings.

Cllr Hollings said: “While we have not given up on the grand prix completely.

“It does need to be looked at and I would be very supportive of a motorcycle event as a biker myself.

“I know the potential is has for bringing people into Darwen.”

Cllr Maxfield also said he would like people in Darwen to have an input, but the exact procedures would have to be decided by the town council.

Cllr Roy Davies said: “The Grand Prix to to me grown men acting like children and I do think it has had its time.”